In the heart of Tamil Nadu’s Sivagangai district, a dream was taking root. This dream belonged to Sivakkumar, an actor whose journey from humble beginnings to the Tamil film and television industry is nothing short of inspiring.
Sivakkumar made the pivotal move to Chennai in 1986, setting the stage for his future. He began his career not in front of the camera, but as a worker in a theatre canteen. For three years, he immersed himself in the vibrant world of theatre, soaking up every aspect of the performing arts. His dedication and passion eventually led him to North Arcot theatre business, where he continued to hone his craft. By 2000, Sivakkumar returned to Villivakkam, Chennai, taking a leap of faith by leasing the canteen in theatre where it all began.
This opportunity came in the form of a role in the serial Vikatan’s Kai Raasi, marking his entry into the world of acting. As his career began to flourish, Sivakkumar became a good friend of Cable Shankar, a notable figure in the industry. His journey took a significant turn when he collaborated with director Nalan Kumaraswamy. After winning the title of Naalya Iyakkunar, Kumaraswamy was set to direct the film Soothu Kavvum, and he invited Sivakkumar to join the cast. This film opened new doors for Sivakkumar, who soon found himself acting in Thegidi, also produced by Thirukumaran Entertainment.
His filmography expanded as he landed roles in notable projects such as Kamal Hassan’s Vettaiyadu Vilaiyadu, Thalapathy Vijay’s Puli, Ajith Kumar’s Ennai Arinthal, directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Jayam Ravi’s Vanamagan. Each role, regardless of size, added to his experience and visibility in the industry.
Sivakkumar’s philosophy about acting reflects his understanding of the industry’s unpredictability. “We should use every single chance in cinema; if it is a one-minute portion, we should act because we don’t know what miracle will happen next,” he often says. This mindset led him to collaborate with renowned director Selvaraghavan, where he acted in a small but memorable scene in Malai Nerathu Mayakkam. His performance impressed Selvaraghavan, leading to another opportunity in Nenjam Marappathilla, where he played the hero’s friend alongside SJ Suryah. Sivakkumar holds Selvaraghavan in high regard, calling him a genius and a perfectionist. He acknowledges the director’s meticulous approach, noting that even the smallest details, such as eye movements, are carefully orchestrated to achieve the desired effect.
Today, Sivakkumar continues to balance his film career with television, currently working on Soothu Kavvum Part II and Vaa Vathiyar, directed by Nalan Kumaraswamy. He is also featured in serials like Aanantha Raagham on SUN TV and Kannethire Thonrinal on Kalaingar TV. This dual engagement not only allows him to explore diverse roles but also provides a stable income, a crucial aspect for any actor in the competitive entertainment industry.
Sivakkumar’s journey is a testament to resilience and dedication. From the theatre canteen to the big screen, he exemplifies the idea that every opportunity, no matter how small, is worth seizing. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors everywhere, reminding us that with hard work and perseverance, dreams can indeed come true.
